The foundation was founded in 2001 as a Cure For Life Foundation by neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo, with a mission to increase the five-year survival rate for brain cancer patients from the current 20 per cent to 50 per cent by 2023.

The foundation’s website states that around 1600 people are diagnosed with brain cancer in Australia annually with about 1200 dying every year.

“Brain cancer kills more children in Australia than any other disease and more people under 40 than any other cancer," the website states.

Derek’s mother, Suzanne Landers said Derek was lucky to be one of the patients given the opportunity to be operated on by Dr Teo.

“Charlie operates on patients other neurosurgeons are too scared to attempt,” she said.

“Charlie gave Derek, his family and friends hope.”

A spokesperson for Dr Teo said he may be attending the fundraising event, depending on his work schedule.

There’ll also be special guest appearances by Perth Wildcats captain and former Gloucester resident, Damian Martin, Newcastle Knights player, Nathan Ross and Assistant Minister for Rural Health and federal member for Lyne, Dr David Gillespie.